VOSTENAKstudios Wins National Jewelry Award & Business Grant

VOSTENAKstudios is the 2009 winner of a national competition for new American jewelry designers. The Jewelry Design Business Development Grant is awarded to a new entrepreneur each year in recognition of design talent and business acumen.

COTTONWOOD, Ariz., Aug. 4 /PRNewswire/ — VOSTENAKstudios of Cottonwood, AZ recently won a national jewelry design award and small business grant sponsored by industry supplier Halstead Bead Inc. Owner Valerie Ostenak will receive a prize package including a $6,000 grant of start up capital and supplies in recognition of her entrepreneurial skills and design talents. VOSTENAKstudios collections are available at fine stores and online at www.valerieostenak.com.

In response to winning the award Ostenak said, “I am absolutely thrilled and deliriously happy to be the 2009 winner. I am still laughing with joy!”

Ostenak’s artistic experience includes traditional jewelry training, blacksmithing, graphic design and painting. The influences of each of these media converge in her fashion jewelry creations. Designs are crafted from Argentium sterling silver and embellished with high karat gold accents, freshwater pearls and semi-precious gemstones.

The VOSTENAKstudios silver jewelry line is contemporary with fluid lines and attention to detail. Ostenak’s unique style is easily recognizable in every piece. She creates one of-a-kind statement necklaces, hairpieces and earrings with delicately intertwined metalwork in her Woven Collection. Her Ribbon Collection consists of more simple hammered styles with a highly reflective finish.

“These designs are stunning,” said Hilary Halstead Scott, a competition judge, “I know VOSTENAKstudios will become a big name in fashion and design.”

Ostenak’s new business prevailed over top competitors from across the United States. Entrants were required to submit a designer jewelry portfolio, a full business plan and written answers to several specific questions. The judging process scrutinized every aspect of candidates’ prospects for succeeding in the fashion and jewelry industries.

VOSTENAKstudios joins a distinguished group of designer jewelry artists who have received the Jewelry Design Business Development Grant in past years including Ananda Khalsa Jewelry, Belle Brooke Designs and Bridgland Studios. Details on the award and all of this year’s top finalists can be found at www.halsteadbead.com/grant.

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